Physical Reality

In 2009, Elder Bednar gave a great CES devotional talk about the importance of our physical bodies. He warned that Satan will try to minimize the importance of our bodies or influence us to neglect them. Elder Bednar further explained that while high-fidelity virtual realities can be used for many wonderful and important purposes (such as simulating realistic temple construction) they can also lead to personal stunting of spiritual growth when improperly indulged in.

I feel that those working in the field of computer science are particularly susceptible to neglecting physical experiences simply because they are so often working long hours on a computer. I appreciated the two guiding questions that Elder Bednar offered in relation to media and technology. I hope to ask myself these questions in my own life, and encourage others to do so as well:

1. Does the use of various technologies and media invite or impede the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost in your life?

2. Does the time you spend using various technologies and media enlarge or restrict your capacity to live, to love, and to serve in meaningful ways?